Prepaid Eswatini SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide
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This post provides all the information tourists need about buying SIM cards in Eswatini for reliable connectivity, including prices, types, how to get them, and the best packages.
If you’re traveling to Eswatini and need cellular service, getting a SIM card is an important part of your trip planning. Whether you choose an eSIM or a physical SIM, having a local mobile plan helps you stay connected with affordable calling, messaging, and data. This guide covers everything you need to know about purchasing and using prepaid SIM cards in Eswatini as a visitor!
In this article
I. What are the Best Eswatini SIM cards for Tourists?
1 USD = 17.42 SZL
Eswatini has several mobile network operators that offer prepaid Eswatini SIM cards and eSIMs for tourists. Let’s explore some of the best options from the major providers:
1. MTN
MTN Eswatini is the largest operator in Eswatini. They also have the best coverage in the country.
Tourist packs
| Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | International Minutes |
| E99 | 1 GB | 45 minutes | 15 minutes |
| E150 | 2 GB | 50 minutes | 15 minutes |
| E299 | 5GB | 50 minutes | 30 minutes |
MTN Eswatini Social Data Bundles (WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube & Study)
| Price | Data | App | Validity |
| E5 | 30 MB | 1 day | |
| E10 | 1.5 GB | YouTube | 1 day |
| E20 | 150 MB | 7 days | |
| E20 | 150 MB | 7 days | |
| E40 | 360 MB | 30 days | |
| E50 | 3 GB | Study | 30 days |
MTN Sisonkhe
Text Bundles
| Price | Validity | All-in-One Social | SMS | Caller Tunes |
| E10 | Weekly | 100 | 50 | 1 |
| E25 | Monthly | 500 | 100 | 1 |
Voice Bundles
| Price | Validity | On-net Min | Off-net Min |
| E15 | Weekly | 60 | 20 |
| E25 | Monthly | 100 | 30 |
Voice Bundles
| Price | Minutes | Validity |
| E2 | 15 Minutes | Hourly |
| E4 | 40 Minutes | Hourly |
| E5 | 30 Minutes | Daily |
| E10 | 70 Minutes | Daily |
| E25 | 180 Minutes | Weekly |
| E80 | 200 Minutes | Monthly |
| E150 | 400 Minutes | Monthly |
MTN Eswatini Time-Based Data Bundles
| Price | Data | Validity |
| E1 | 2 MB | 1 hour |
| E10 | 45 MB | 1 hour |
| E20 | 100 MB | 1 hour |
Mi-Fi Data Bundles
| Price | Volume |
| E350 | 5 GB |
| E499 | 10 GB |
| E999 | 50 GB |
MTN Toti Toti Bundles
| Price | Volume | Validity |
| E50 | 6GB | 6 Hours |
| E100 | 15GB | 24 Hours |
| E1 499 | 50GB | Monthly |
2. Eswatini Mobile
You can buy Eswatini Mobile SIM cards for 50 SZL in Eswatini Mobile stores. The SIM cards come with 50 SZL in credit.
Eswatini Mobile No Frills Contracts
| Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Unlimited Calls |
| E100 | 1 GB | 300 on-net minutes | 60 off-net minutes | 60 SMS | On Saturdays & Sundays |
| E195 | 2 GB | 600 on-net minutes | 120 off-net minutes | 120 SMS | On Sundays between 6:00-18:00 (6 AM-6PM) |
| E295 | 8 GB | Unlimited on-net minutes | 150 off-net minutes | 150 SMS | N/A |
Eswatini Mobile Prepaid Plans
| Price | Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
| E10 | 10 MB | 70 on-net minutes | 10 off-net minutes | 10 SMS | 24 hours |
| E50 | 50 MB | 250 on-net minutes | 50 off-net minutes | 50 SMS | 7 days |
| E195 | 1 GB | 500 on-net minutes | 100 off-net minutes | 50 SMS | 30 days |
| E240 | 60 MB | 60 on-net minutes | N/A | 60 SMS | Allowance renewed every 30 days, the plan expires after 365 days |
| E295 | 2 GB | 750 on-net minutes | 200 off-net minutes | 75 SMS | 30 days |
Eswatini Mobile Data Bundles (The Data Bundles are data-only bundles)
| Price | Data | Night Data |
| E5 | 20 MB | 10 MB |
| E30 | 100 MB | 50 MB |
| E50 | 200 MB | 100 MB |
| E90 | 400 MB | 200 MB |
| E150 | 1 GB | 512 MB |
| E295 | 2.5 GB | 1.25 GB |
| E500 | 5 GB | 2.5 GB |
| E800 | 10 GB | 5 GB |
| E1000 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Eswatini for Tourists?
As a tourist, you have several options to purchase an Eswatini SIM card or eSIM for your visit to Eswatini:
1. Buy Eswatini SIM Card Online Before Departure
Many Eswatini mobile operators allow you to order a prepaid SIM card online and have it delivered to your address before your trip. This option ensures you have an Eswatini SIM card ready to go as soon as you arrive in Eswatini.
2. Buy a SIM Card at the Eswatini Airport
Most major Eswatini airports, like King Mswati III International Airport, have kiosks or shops where you can buy a prepaid SIM card as soon as you arrive. This is a convenient option if you want to get your SIM card right after landing.
3. Buy a SIM Card in the City
If you prefer to wait until you’re in the city, you can find prepaid SIM cards at various mobile operator stores, convenience stores, and supermarkets throughout Eswatini.
4. Buy an eSIM
You can usually purchase eSIMs online from the mobile operator’s website or through their app. Some providers also sell eSIMs at airport kiosks or stores. The advantage of an eSIM is that you can activate it instantly on your compatible device without changing a physical SIM card.
Important Note: Remember to bring your passport or another form of ID when buying a SIM card or eSIM in Eswatini, as providers may require it for registration.
III. How Much is a Tourist Eswatini SIM Card?
Visitors can buy SIM cards in Eswatini starting from $1 USD. The price depends on the plan you choose, including the amount of data, minutes, and texts.
Tip: Before deciding, compare different Eswatini SIM card plans. Consider factors like coverage area, internet speeds, plan prices, validity period, and data limits. This will help you find the best SIM card for your trip.
IV. What types of Eswatini SIM cards are available for tourists?
There are two main types of prepaid SIM cards for tourists in Eswatini:
- Prepaid Physical SIM Card
- Prepaid eSIM
| Criteria | Eswatini Physical SIM Card | Eswatini eSIM |
| Convenience | – Must find a store and insert a small SIM card. – Requires showing your passport. | – No physical SIM card needed. – Can activate directly on a compatible smartphone. – Easy to use. |
| Compatibility | Works only on phones that accept SIM cards. | Works on smartphones that support eSIM, like recent iPhone and Android models. |
| How to Use | Insert the Eswatini SIM into your phone. | – Scan a QR code. – No insertion needed. |
| Price | Generally low cost. | Also affordable. |
| Plan Options | Data-focused or messaging/calling bundles. | Mainly data-focused options. |
► Our Recommendation:
An eSIM for your trip to Eswatini is very convenient. Instead of dealing with a small SIM card, you can easily activate and use data plans directly on your phone. eSIMs often offer data-only options, allowing you to call loved ones back home using communication apps.
This is a great way to stay in touch while visiting Eswatini without spending too much on phone calls or texts.
V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Eswatini travel?
Absolutely. When visiting Eswatini, having a local SIM card is very convenient. Whether you choose a physical SIM or an eSIM, here are some great benefits:
- Affordable Calling and Messaging : Stay connected with family and friends back home.
- Reliable Data : Use maps, check social media, and browse the web while on the go.
- Local Phone Number : Makes it easy for others to contact you during your travels.
- Plan Options : Choose the right amount of minutes, texts, and data for your needs.
- Wide Coverage : Stay connected throughout the country, even in remote areas.
Getting a SIM card helps you navigate Eswatini without high roaming fees. It’s also helpful for arranging transport or meeting up with people you meet during your visit. So, get a SIM card before you arrive to make your trip smoother and more budget-friendly!
Tip: If your phone supports eSIM, consider getting an eSIM for Eswatini. It offers quick activation on your device and reliable data for your trip.
VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Eswatini?
Getting mobile connectivity in Eswatini is easy if you come prepared. Here are some key things to have ready:
- Valid ID : Bring a passport, as most providers require ID to buy a SIM card.
- Cash : Have Eswatini lilangeni (SZL) on hand, as many sellers do not accept credit cards.
- SIM Size : Know if your phone uses a mini SIM or nano SIM to ensure the Eswatini SIM fits your device.
- Research Providers : Look into network providers like MTN or Eswatini Mobile to find the best coverage and rates.
- Plan Your Needs : Decide how much data, minutes, or texts you need.
- Purchase Options : Consider whether you want an eSIM or a physical SIM card.
By bringing the right ID, cash, and doing some research, you can buy a local SIM card in Eswatini quickly and easily. This will help you stay connected during your travels.
VII. Eswatini eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards
An eSIM is very convenient for travelers to Eswatini because it lets you quickly access Eswatini’s fast cellular networks without the hassle of other internet options.
To use an eSIM, you need an unlocked phone that supports eSIM. If your device meets these requirements, you can enjoy all the benefits of an eSIM.
So, Which eSIM Provider to Choose?
I recommend Gigago as the perfect choice for tourists as they offer great value with its Eswatini eSIM plans.
For Eswatini, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $9.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Eswatini eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $9.50 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Eswatini, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
This means you’ll have reliable connectivity across Eswatini on major networks like MTN. Setting up your eSIM is easy—just scan the QR code to install it on your compatible phone.
With so many options available, you can find a plan that fits your needs and trip duration perfectly.
VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Eswatini?
It depends on your travel needs when purchasing a prepaid SIM in Eswatini. Here are the available validity periods:
- 1 Day : Great for short layovers when you only need connectivity for one day.
- 5 – 7 Days : Ideal for quick trips or weekend getaways, providing internet for about a week.
- 15 Days : This plan is perfect for vacations or volunteer trips lasting 2 to 3 weeks.
- 30 Days : Monthly plans are best for longer trips, offering service for around a month.
Tourists can choose the validity period that fits their stay. This flexibility makes it easy to stay in touch with friends and family while exploring beautiful Eswatini.
IX. How to activate a SIM card in Eswatini?
Here are the simple steps to activate SIM cards in Eswatini for your trip.
1. Activating Physical Eswatini SIM Cards for Visitors
After purchasing a physical SIM card from MTN or Eswatini Mobile, follow these steps:
- Turn off your unlocked phone.
- Insert the Eswatini SIM card and turn your phone back on.
- Allow your phone to search for the new SIM and connect to Eswatini’s local network.
- If prompted, select the provider.
- To check your balance, call the customer service number.
Enjoy local cell services during your trip to Eswatini!
2. Activating Eswatini eSIM
Activating a Eswatini eSIM (virtual or digital SIM) is also easy:
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM and can work on Eswatini’s networks.
- Buy your Eswatini eSIM online before your trip.
- Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code that your eSIM provider sends you via email.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to add the Eswatini eSIM to your phone.
- Start using mobile services on Eswatini’s network.
X. FAQs
Do I need to register my SIM card in Eswatini?
Yes, you must register your SIM card with your passport or ID when you purchase it.
Can I use my foreign SIM card in Eswatini?
Yes, but using a local SIM card is usually more cost-effective for calls and data.
Is internet access reliable in Eswatini?
Yes, the major providers offer good coverage and reliable internet access, especially in urban areas.
In summary, getting a prepaid SIM card in Eswatini is essential for your trip. Both physical SIMs and eSIM options offer affordable mobile connectivity. Eswatini SIM cards make it easy to communicate online using maps, calling apps, and messaging. Following this guide will make it simple to purchase and activate a SIM card, ensuring you have convenient mobile access throughout your trip. If your device supports eSIM, consider signing up for an Eswatini eSIM for added convenience and savings.